STCryptoLib FAQ

What is the STM32 Cryptographic library (STCryptoLib)?

STCryptoLib is a proprietary software library from STMicroelectronics for ARM® Cortex®-M microcontrollers. ST delivers it as raw binaries optimized for different Cortex-M configurations and directly linkable with STM32 targets.

What are the main components of STCryptoLib?

The library consists of Crypto services (symmetric/asymmetric cryptography, randomization, hashing, secure buffer management) accessed via the CMOX API, and Common services (library initialization and runtime information).

How does STCryptoLib handle hardware dependencies?

The library requires the application to initialize the CRC peripheral before use. It does not directly use the CRC handle during operation, which keeps it loosely coupled to the hardware.

How can STCryptoLib be used in an application?

It can be called directly by an application (example) or through the STM32 Flexible Crypto Framework (STFCF) middleware.

What are the dependencies of the STCryptoLib middleware?

STCryptoLib depends only on the HAL pack, specifically the HAL CRC component.

Why don’t I have access to the source code?

ST delivers the library in binary form and provides only the header files that expose the CMOX APIs.

What is NIST and why are its vectors considered a standard?

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) is an agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce that promotes industrial competitiveness and innovation. Its test vectors are widely recognized as a global reference for cryptographic testing and validation.